Women in Technology Podcast

What does it really take to grow a company and grow people at the same time? In this episode, we’re joined by Janel Merritt, Chief Operating Officer of Public Sector Solutions Group (PS2G), to unpack what she calls the modern COO playbook — one rooted in innovation, workforce development, and intentional growth. With more than 20 years of experience in technology and digital transformation, Janel leads national and international expansion across public sector, healthcare, and energy. She shares the real challenges these industries are facing today and the strategies organizations are using to meet the moment.

In this episode, we’re joined by Nisha Paliwal, Head of Data and AI Commercial at AbbVie, author of Secrets of AI Value Creation, and a longtime technology leader who brings a deeply human-centered lens to artificial intelligence. Nisha takes us inside what she calls the AI Change Curve — the very real progression many professionals experience as AI enters the workplace. From the initial shock and resistance “Will this replace me?”, to the vulnerable “Am I enough?” moment, and ultimately to the breakthrough where AI becomes a powerful collaborator rather than a threat.

Rakshana Balakrishnan, Cloud infrastructure Product Manager at Oracle

In this episode, we’re joined by Rakshana Balakrishnan, Principal Product Manager at Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and we explore the evolving role of product management in today’s fast-moving, GenAI-powered tech landscape. She shares tips on what it takes to be a product manager today, and provides sound ideas for claiming your seat at the table.

Guest: Liz Anthony, Formerly Managing Director, Federal Market, Maximus, now an advisor

Liz talks about how marketing is the connector between insights and impact. She is a big believer in linking sales, technology and marketing together and how differentiation is only possible if you do those things well. In this episode, Liz dives into why marketing is a strategic force, not just a support function — especially in complex environments like the federal market.

Featuring Michelle Batt

In this inspiring episode of the Women in Technology podcast, we sit down with Grace Llojaj, Security Risk & Compliance Consultant with SEI and Tina Schniebs, Risk Management Consultant at Ridgeline International.

In this inspiring episode of the Women in Technology podcast, we sit down with Erin Rothman,  an accomplished environmental professional and innovative leader in climate resilience, sustainability, and urban planning.

As CEO of StormSensor, Managing Director at Manzana, and Co-Founder of Merak Labs, Erin has dedicated her career to developing impactful solutions that build a more sustainable and resilient future.

Join us as we discuss:

• The challenges and rewards ofco-founding multiple companies with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
• Exciting projects that aim torevolutionize urban planning and environmental resilience.
• The legacy Erin hopes to leave andthe broader impact of her work on communities and the environment.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this episode will inspire and motivate you to challenge yourself and find less traveled roads. This episode is the perfect way to kick off your motivation on Monday or start a new chapter.

Ready to land your dream job in tech? This episode is your guide to navigating the upcoming Women in Technology Job Fair.

We'll share insider tips on how to stand out from the crowd, make meaningful connections with recruiters, and showcase your unique skills.

Join us as we discuss:  

• Pre-fair prep: Crafting a killerresume and elevator pitch, researching attending companies, and planning yourstrategy.
• On-site success: Making aconfident first impression, asking insightful questions, and leaving a lastingimpact.
• Post-fair follow-up: Writingeffective thank-you notes and staying on recruiters' radar.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this episode will equip you with the tools and confidence to make the most of this exciting opportunity. Tune in and get ready to level up your career!

In this episode, we explore a slightly different aspect of the tech industry – tech marketing! Lexy Sheets is the Director of Marketing at Presidio Federal, responsible for leading brand growth and building awareness, strategic market positioning, and generating business demand. Tune in to hear Becky and Lexy discuss the process and challenges of developing a brand, the importance of saying yes, and how the little things are, truly, the big things. Take a listen, get inspired, and rise from the classroom to the boardroom!

In this episode, we chat with a woman who is determined to pass on her knowledge and experiences to support others following in her footsteps – after immigrating to the US from Iraq over 20 years ago, Sairan Aqrawi received her Master’s degree in Engineering and is now the Design Coordinator Team lead for the Washington Metro Silver Line Project. Tune in to hear Becky and Sairan discuss muting the clutter, what it really means to live “the American Dream,” and uncovering "Your Core Genius." Take a listen, get inspired, and rise from the classroom to the boardroom!